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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Stories from the community
R
Robin
2 weeks ago
1 night at Rock N Ranch Events & Campground
Beautiful property, lots of trails to explore, pond and complete relaxation. Hunters Havin sleeping cabin was awesome. Great for cooler weather and beautiful surroundings for campfire. We can’t wait to return in the summer with the grandkids.
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Xavier
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure
Great roadside stop. Safe and comfortable. Would reccomend.
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Katie
October 2025
1 night at Rock N Ranch Events & Campground
Gorgeous property. Booked the sight above the pond which was beautiful and peaceful. Great sunset spot.
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Holly
October 2025
1 night at Rock N Ranch Events & Campground
The host was super friendly and flexible, even when we got in around midnight. The space was safe and views were lovely the next morning. I'd recommend staying!
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Josh
October 2025
18 ft travel trailer
Emma and her husband Jason always go above and beyond to make any visit to the Waypoint awesome! The stay was perfect as usual and I will definitely be back again
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Eric
October 2025
2 nights at Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure
Absolutely love the cute little cottage and the fun playground areas.
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Rayven
October 2025
2 nights at Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure
We had a great stay! The cabin was cozy and clean, tucked on the outskirts of Des Moines in a quiet little RV park and campground. The host was super friendly and helpful, and we appreciated that it wasn’t crowded at all. There were fun swings to discover around the property, and we enjoyed a perfect evening campfire—firewood was conveniently available on-site. Would definitely stay again!
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Anna
September 2025
With kids
My kids and I stayed here while just passing though the area on a road trip. We ended up staying in “The Loft” and we loved it! Perfect for kids. The little cabin was clean, cozy and the host was so kind and accommodating with our late arrival. The surrounding property is beautiful and it was the perfect place to stop after a long day of driving. We only wish we could have stayed longer. Will for sure be back!
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James
September 2025
Tent
The facilities were good, the site was nice (trees, nearby creek), and the staff were friendly and helpful.
The only potential downside to this campsite is that there was fairly continual traffic noise from an interstate highway that was about a half mile to the north of the site; the noise eventually faded into the background of our awareness and didn't impact our ability to sleep at night
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Patricia
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Hostess was friendly and helpful. The site was large and shady. The facilities were clean. Directions, actually coordinates, were for a location about a mile away. I had to call to find the campground. Site T3 was very close to I-80 so it became noisy at times. The brook had an area of extremely slow moving water which seemed to attract mosquitoes. Perhaps that was seasonal. I would highly recommend for RVs and camper vans. Only can rate a maybe for tent camping..
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Kyra
September 2025
With pets
I was only able to stay one night on my road trip, and I wish I had alloted another for this site! Linda was so so sweet and set me up with her favorite spot and it didnt disapoint <3
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Dave
August 2025
18 ft travel trailer
With kids
We had a wonderful, relaxing weekend at Waypoint. We enjoyed walking the nature trails and fishing in the pond. We even visited the alpacas. Emma kindly gave us an educational tour of all of their animal friends including dogs, cats, chickens, goats, and alpacas. Emma was very patient with our kid's many questions. The land is kept wild except for the camping spots and trails. We will definitely return.
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Nolan
August 2025
With kids
Great place to have a camping trip close to Omaha. Plenty of open space, fishing, hiking, and the sights are awesome. We were blown away at the brightness of the stars. Thanks Linda!
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Allie
August 2025
With kids
I love Rock N Ranch! The property is beautiful & well taken care of. I appreciate the quiet and feel of isolation. Linda is easy to reach and so helpful. My family and I have camped here multiple times and we’ll keep coming back!
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Karl
August 2025
16 ft campervan
Nice little place. We didn’t get to stay very long, but it is very peaceful and quiet.
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Dudley
August 2025
30 ft travel trailer
With pets
This is a wonderfully quiet place with gorgeous trees! It was a little too hot for pups and I to explore much but our camping area was very secluded and private. Emma is an incredibly responsive and kind hostess!
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CJ
August 2025
Weekend Trip to Rock N Ranch Events & Campground
We were only there for one night, but the whole setup of the land was really cool and our tent sites were out of the way and secluded for the most part. Other than the bugs trying to eat us alive, and the heat, it was a great campsite, and perfect stopping location for our trip across the US!
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Ronda
August 2025
Tent
I enjoyed the privacy and shade that site #T3 offered. The other tent sites in the loop were in full sun. I set up a tail gate tent and appreciated that there was enough grass at the end of the parking gravel for the tent. The large site could easily fit a couple of more tents. Very relaxing to listen to the accessable babbling creek on the back of the site. Only negative would be if there are other tenters you could be bothered by the close port-a-potty. I definitely heard the white noise of the interstate but it didn't drown out the sounds of the owls at night. Few lights in the campground allow for stargazing. So surprised to find the cleanest shower house ever! The private shower included a sink and toilet. Host was quick to answer any questions I had. I will definitely visit again.
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Jj
August 2025
18 ft campervan
With pets
This place was very secluded with private campsites. Our dogs loved it also. Obviously certain months bring bug spray lol. Had it not been overcast I'm sure we would have been able to enjoy millions of stars. If you e joy outdoors and seclusion 100% recommend!
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Devon
August 2025
With pets
The Ranch is a hidden paradise for a person like myself!! Very peaceful with a Creek,Pond, and Trails!!!! We had a Full moon during the stay and it’s amazing view every night! 10/10!!! 5 Star!!! MUST SEE!!!
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The best camping in Lake Icaria, IA guide
Overview
About
For campers seeking a blend of rich history and plentiful outdoor activities, camping near Lake Icaria is an enticing prospect. With roots reaching back to a French colony that once settled the area, the lake - completed in 1978 - now stands as a testament to the blend of past and present, human settlement, and untouched nature. Located in southwest Iowa, Lake Icaria sits comfortably equidistant from several metropolitan areas. Whether you're journeying from Des Moines, Omaha/Council Bluffs, or St. Joseph, this lake is ideally positioned for an exciting weekend getaway. The 650-acre expanse offers an array of activities for both the adventurous and the tranquil at heart. From fishing enthusiasts to water skiers and tubing aficionados, Lake Icaria provides the perfect backdrop for a host of water-based activities. With so much to see and do, your Lake Icaria camping expedition offers the promise of an unforgettable outdoor adventure, whether it's a tranquil fishing trip, a thrilling water ski ride, or simply a chance to soak up the area's rich history. A visit to Lake Icaria is more than just a camping trip; it's an invitation to engage with the vibrant heartbeat of Iowa's great outdoors.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Book early to secure your ideal spot, as sites fill up quickly during peak seasons.
- Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter experience.
- Keep an eye on cancellations for last-minute opportunities.
- Explore nearby camping options for alternative accommodations if the park is full.
When to go
The best time to visit Lake Icaria is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty of the area is at its peak. Summer offers warm days perfect for water activities, though it can be busy. Winters are quiet but can be quite cold.
Know before you go
- Check the park's official website for any alerts or closures before your visit.
- Ensure you have a valid fishing license if you plan to fish, and familiarize yourself with local regulations.
- Accessible facilities are available to accommodate all visitors.
- Remember to pack out all trash and respect the wildlife.
- Restrooms and fish cleaning stations are provided for your convenience.
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